Today's readings are Psalm 51:5-13, Nehemiah 9:1-21, and 1 Timothy 5:17-6:2.
We've talked about biblical eldership here a bit lately. Today in 1 Timothy 5 we see the elder raise his head again. Notice that these elders engage in ruling, preaching, and teaching. Paul points out that they should be free to receive pay. He also says the elder should have protection in what he does. It should be difficult to bring accusations against elders. They are doing difficult things and may be misunderstood easily.
While we have seen that elders seem to be normal Christians, they are exemplary and mature believers, clearly in a position of leadership. Could these be our pastors? They seem to be. But we get the idea here and elsewhere that there may typically be multiple elders in each congregation. It seems elders are expected to be prepared for the pastoral office, but that they are often products of the local congregation and may not spend the entirety of their time engaged in pastoral care.
May the Lord continue to raise up these local leaders, elders, giving us honor and respect for those who rule well.
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